When it's time to bid adieu to many of the items around your house that are no longer needed, it's important to know what is considered hazardous waste and can't simply be tossed in the garbage.

You might be surprised at what typical items are considered hazardous waste that you use regularly around the house, yard and garage. Not only is it illegal to discard these items improperly, but our communities and the environment are in danger when products are simply disposed of in the garbage, sink or storm drain. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, Household Hazardous Waste is any product labeled toxic, poison, combustible, corrosive, flammable or irritant.

Below are the three general categories of waste, with links to more thorough lists from the Los Angeles DPW: